Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik serves as an ideal base for exploring Dubrovnik Region, including neighboring countries such as Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina.

If you spend a day or two exploring Dubrovnik's main sights, consider some of the very popular boat trips to nearby islands such as Korčula, Mljet, and the Elafiti Islands Koločep, Lopud and Šipan. Additionally, Dubrovnik's proximity to Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina makes day trips to Kotor, Budva, Mostar, Kravice Waterfalls, and Vjetrenica Cave highly popular.

Furthermore, the Pelješac peninsula, Konavle region, and Neretva Valley offer abundant opportunities for wine tasting, rural experiences, fresh seafood delights, and idyllic beaches. For those seeking shorter day excursions from Dubrovnik without extensive travel or expenses, Lokrum Island and Trsteno Arboretum are perfect choices.

Top day trips from Dubrovnik - quick overview

This quick overview highlights the most popular day trips from Dubrovnik with typical travel times and what each destination is best for. It helps you decide which day trip fits your interests before reading the detailed guides further down the page.

• Elaphiti Islands (Koločep, Lopud, Šipan) - 30 to 75 minutes by boat. Best for beaches, swimming and easy island-hopping without long travel.
• Mljet Island & Mljet National Park - 1.5 to 2 hours by catamaran or boat. Ideal for nature, cycling and walking around the saltwater lakes.
• Pelješac Peninsula & Korčula Island - Around 1 to 2 hours to Pelješac, plus a short ferry. Good for wine tasting, oysters in Ston and exploring Korčula’s compact Old Town.
• Montenegro (Kotor, Perast, Budva) - About 2 to 3 hours each way. Best for dramatic coastline, UNESCO-listed Kotor and seeing another country in a day. Passport required.
• Bosnia and Herzegovina (Mostar, Kravice Waterfalls, Međugorje) - 2.5 to 3.5 hours each way. Recommended for Ottoman-era bridges, waterfalls and cultural contrasts. Passport required.
• Konavle & Cavtat - 30 to 45 minutes by bus, taxi or car. Best for countryside, rivers, wineries and a relaxed seaside town close to Dubrovnik.
• Short half-day options (Lokrum Island, Trsteno Arboretum) - 15 to 30 minutes from Dubrovnik. Good when you want nature, shade and sea access without a full-day trip.

Travel times are approximate and vary with traffic, border queues and sea conditions. Always check official timetables or excursion details when planning your day trip.

How to choose the right day trip from Dubrovnik

Most day trips from Dubrovnik fall into three groups: islands, nearby regions in Croatia and cross-border trips to Montenegro or Bosnia and Herzegovina. Thinking about travel time, required documents and your preferred pace helps narrow the options quickly.

• Choose islands if you want swimming, beaches and a relaxed pace. The Elaphiti Islands and Island Mljet work well when you prefer short travel and plenty of time by the sea.
• Choose mainland Croatia such as Pelješac, Korčula or Konavle when you want wine tasting, countryside or small historic towns without border delays.
• Choose cross-border trips like Kotor or Mostar if you want a full-day experience with different culture, architecture and food. Bring your passport and allow extra time for border queues.

Organised excursions are convenient for longer routes or border crossings, while DIY trips offer more flexibility for nearby islands and Croatian destinations. Check weather forecasts for boat routes and verify official bus or ferry timetables when planning.

Organised tours vs DIY day trips from Dubrovnik

Both organised excursions and DIY trips work well around Dubrovnik, but each suits different types of destinations. The main differences are travel time, border procedures and how easy it is to reach the place on your own.

• Organised tours are usually better for Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina because guides handle border procedures, parking and timing. They also work well for multi-stop itineraries where public transport connections are limited.
• DIY trips are ideal for the Elaphiti Islands, Mljet, Cavtat and most destinations in Konavle. Ferries and local buses run regularly and you can spend as long as you like at each place.
• Car rental helps with Pelješac wineries, Ston and short cross-country routes, but parking in Dubrovnik can be challenging in summer and border queues vary throughout the day.

If you prefer a structured day with minimal planning, choose an organised tour. If you enjoy flexibility and want to explore at your own pace, DIY options for nearby Croatian destinations offer the most freedom.

What to expect on a day trip from Dubrovnik

Most day trips from Dubrovnik start early, especially those that include ferry travel or border crossings. Expect a full-day schedule for Montenegro, Mostar, Mljet or Pelješac and a shorter, more flexible day for nearby islands or Cavtat.

• Border checks on trips to Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina can add extra waiting time, which varies by season and time of day.
• Sea conditions may affect island routes, particularly early in the season, so ferries and small boats can run on adjusted timetables.
• Heat and crowds are common from June to September, so starting earlier often gives a better experience and avoids the busiest periods.
• Limited shade and facilities on some islands or natural sites mean it is useful to bring water, sun protection and comfortable shoes.
• Food options vary by destination; larger towns have restaurants and shops, while smaller islands may have only a few places open outside peak season.

Planning around weather, season and transport schedules helps make the most of your day, whether you choose an organised excursion or travel independently.

Practical tips for day trips from Dubrovnik

• Start early to avoid midday heat, crowds at popular sites and longer border queues on cross-border trips.
• Check ferry or excursion schedules the day before, as departures for islands can change with weather or season.
• Bring water and sun protection because shade is limited on many islands, coastal paths and natural sites.
• Wear comfortable shoes for uneven streets, old town centers and short walks to viewpoints.
• Carry some cash for small cafés, local buses or entrance fees where cards are not always accepted.
• Pack swim gear if visiting islands, Mljet or coastal spots where you may want to swim during free time.
• Bring your passport for any trip that enters Montenegro or Bosnia and Herzegovina.

These basic preparations make day trips smoother and help you adapt easily to changing weather, transport timetables or local conditions.

Border crossing notes for Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina

Day trips from Dubrovnik to Montenegro or Bosnia and Herzegovina require a valid passport. Border checks are straightforward, but waiting times vary with season, time of day and overall traffic.

• Passport required for all travelers when entering Montenegro or Bosnia and Herzegovina, including on organised excursions.
• Border queues are usually longer in summer and around midday. Early departures generally mean shorter waiting times.
• Car rental rules vary by company. If driving yourself, confirm that cross-border travel and insurance are allowed for Montenegro or Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Return times may vary due to traffic, so allow flexibility if you have evening plans in Dubrovnik.
• Currency differs in both countries; card payments are common in larger towns, but small local shops or cafés may prefer cash.

Organised tours handle the paperwork and border procedures for you, which is often easier during peak travel months.

Best time of year for day trips from Dubrovnik

Day trips from Dubrovnik run all year, but the experience changes with the season. Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather for sightseeing, while summer has the widest choice of boat routes and longer daylight hours.

• April to June - Mild temperatures, fewer crowds and good conditions for walking, nature trips and island visits. Ferry routes increase from May till September.
• July and August - Peak season with the most departures for islands and excursions. Expect higher temperatures, busy border crossings and crowded popular sites.
• September and October - Warm sea, pleasant weather and reliable transport options make this one of the best times for day trips, especially to islands and national parks.
• November to March - Quieter months with limited boat schedules and shorter days. Mainland trips to Cavtat, Konavle, Pelješac or Mostar are still possible with planning.

Checking the local forecast helps decide which type of trip suits the day. For updated conditions, see the weather in Dubrovnik page before you travel.

Typical costs for day trips from Dubrovnik

Prices for day trips from Dubrovnik vary by destination, season and whether you choose a group excursion, private tour or DIY option. The ranges below are rough guides based on recent offers and official fees, so always check current prices before booking.

• Elaphiti Islands boat trips - Group full-day cruises with lunch usually start from around €50 to €70 per adult, while private speedboat tours for a small group can cost several hundred euros for the boat for the day. Explore your options in the full guide to boat rental in Dubrovnik.
• Mljet Island and Mljet National Park - One-way ferry tickets from Dubrovnik to Mljet are typically around €10 to €20 per person, and adult national park tickets are generally in the low tens of euros, with higher prices in peak season than in spring or autumn. Organised day trips that include transport and park entry usually start from roughly €70 to €100 per person. Discover more details in the full guide to Mljet National Park.
• Mostar and Bosnia and Herzegovina day trips - Group coach tours from Dubrovnik to Mostar and nearby sights often start from about €50 to €70 per person. Private transfers or private tours cost more but can be good value when shared between several travelers.
• Montenegro day trips (Kotor, Perast, Budva) - Group excursions by coach commonly begin in the €50 to €80 per person range, depending on route and inclusions. Private tours are more expensive overall but allow you to customize the day.
• Nearby Croatian trips (Cavtat, Konavle, Ston, Pelješac) - DIY visits by local bus are usually the cheapest option, with single tickets often well under €10 one way. Organised excursions or wine tours in Pelješac cost more but include tastings and guiding.

These examples are only approximate and can change with season, fuel costs and demand. Treat them as a starting point for budgeting and always confirm exact prices with the tour operator, ferry company or official national park website before you book.

Below, we've listed the top places to explore on a day trip from Dubrovnik!

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Elaphite Islands

The Elaphiti Islands, Koločep, Lopud and Šipan, are the closest and easiest day trip from Dubrovnik. Ferries and excursion boats take around 30 to 75 minutes depending on the island, with more frequent departures from May to October. Lopud is known for its sandy Šunj Beach and seaside promenades, Koločep offers quiet walking paths and coves, and Šipan has small villages and countryside perfect for a relaxed visit.

Despite their small size and limited settlements, these islands boast pristine natural landscapes, including sandy and rocky beaches, perfect for swimming, kayaking, and embracing a laid-back lifestyle. Families particularly enjoy the sandy beaches of Lopud Island. Because travel times are short and connections are frequent, the Elaphiti Islands are one of the easiest and most flexible day trips from Dubrovnik.

Ferries depart from Dubrovnik port multiple times daily from June to September, and you can check routes and timings for Koločep, Lopud and Šipan ferries, while sea kayaking tours offer another option to explore these charming islands. If you wish to see all 3 islands in one day a Full-Day Dubrovnik Elaphite Islands Cruise is your best choice. Below are additional suggestions for exploring the Elaphiti Islands:

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Mljet Island and Mljet National Park

Mljet is one of Croatia’s most unspoiled islands and a popular full-day trip from Dubrovnik. Catamarans usually take 1.5 to 2 hours each way and run most reliably from May to October, and you can check current routes and departures on the Dubrovnik to Mljet ferry page. Much of the western side of the island is protected as Mljet National Park.

The park is built around two saltwater lakes connected by walking and cycling paths, making it ideal for nature lovers. Bike rentals are available near the entrance, and many visitors combine a ride or walk with a swim in the warm lake water. The small islet with the Benedictine monastery is reachable by the park’s boat service.

Mljet offers forests, clear lakes, quiet bays and scenic trails, with the northwestern part designated as a Croatian national park since 1960. It is well suited for hiking and cycling, and is known for Veliko and Malo Jezero, St. Mary’s Island, Odysseus Cave and the sandy beach at Saplunara.

Visitors can explore the lakes on foot or by bike, take the small boat to St. Mary’s Island, swim in the lakes or at Saplunara, or visit Polače and the villages inland. The island’s quiet atmosphere makes it a relaxing contrast to Dubrovnik’s busier day trips.

During June to September, a high-speed passenger boat departs daily from Dubrovnik to Sobra and Polače. Alternatively, you can reach Sobra on Mljet Island via ferry from Prapratno on the Pelješac Peninsula. Read more about Island Mljet.

Outside the high season, ferry schedules are more limited, so it is worth checking timetables in advance. With its quiet trails, shaded forests and natural lakes, Mljet offers a slower and more tranquil alternative to Dubrovnik’s busier island trips.

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Pelješac Peninsula and Korčula Island

The Pelješac Peninsula is a rewarding day trip from Dubrovnik, known for its wine regions, oyster farms and historic towns. Travel time is usually 1 to 2 hours depending on the route, making it easy to combine several stops in one day. The first major town, Ston, is famous for its long defensive walls and oysters from Mali Ston Bay.

After visiting Ston, most travelers continue along the peninsula to its renowned vineyards. Pelješac is the home of Plavac Mali, one of Croatia’s most notable red wines, and several wineries offer tastings throughout the valley and coastal slopes. The scenery becomes more rural and relaxed as you move away from the main road.

A short ferry crossing connects Pelješac with Korčula Island via the Orebić to Korčula ferry, bringing you directly to the island. Korčula Town’s compact Old Town features stone alleys, small squares and waterfront views. For more background on the island, see Korčula Croatia.

This combination of Ston, local wineries and Korčula Town makes Pelješac one of the most varied day trips from Dubrovnik, balancing history, nature and food experiences without long travel times.

Pelješac and Korčula can be visited independently by car or as a small-group tour, depending on how much structure or flexibility you prefer.

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Bosnia and Hercegovina Day Trips (Mostar, Kravice Waterfalls, Međugorje)

Mostar, situated along the Neretva river, is a popular day trip from Dubrovnik, boasting the iconic Old Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Established in the 15th century, Mostar features remarkable Turkish-style architecture. Explore the old town, marvel at the mosques, cobblestone streets, and oriental shops. Relax at river cafes and indulge in a traditional Bosnian meal at Urban Grill & Gourmet restaurant.

Extend your journey beyond Mostar to witness the magnificent Kravice Waterfalls or the spiritual Međugorje pilgrimage site.

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Montenegro (Kotor, Budva, Perast)

Dubrovnik is an excellent base for visiting Montenegro, especially the scenic Bay of Kotor region. The drive usually takes 2 to 3 hours depending on border traffic and offers views of steep mountains, lakes and coastal villages. Most day trips focus on Kotor, Perast and parts of the Budva Riviera. Passport checks are required at the border, and travel times vary with seasonal traffic.

The Bay of Kotor is often compared to a fjord because of its dramatic cliffs and narrow inlets. Kotor Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the highlight of most visits. Its walled Old Town features stone alleys, small squares, churches and viewpoints, and many travelers walk part of the path towards the Kotor Fortress for wider views of the bay.

Perast is another popular stop, known for its well-preserved Baroque houses and the small islet of Our Lady of the Rocks, which can be reached by a short boat ride. The calm waterfront and mountain backdrop make it one of the most photographed places in Montenegro. For breathtaking views of the bay, consider a drive up Lovčen Mountain, despite its narrow and winding roads, the views over the bay are among the most impressive in the region.

Some excursions continue to Budva, a coastal town with beaches and a compact old core. The drive between the towns provides additional viewpoints over the bay and coastline. Because border queues vary throughout the day, early departures from Dubrovnik generally make the trip smoother and allow more time to explore each stop.

Whether travelling by self-drive or small-group tour, Montenegro offers impressive scenery, historic towns and several easy sightseeing stops within a single day trip from Dubrovnik.

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Konavle

Konavle, often dubbed the "belly of Dubrovnik," boasts lush agricultural terrain just a 20-minute drive from the city. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, cycling, horseback riding, and ATV safaris. Additionally, visitors can indulge in wine and olive oil tastings, explore historical sites, and wander through picturesque coastal towns.

Cavtat, the largest town in Konavle, charms visitors with its quaint Old Town, scenic seafront promenade, renowned seafood eateries, and inviting pebble beaches. Don't miss Pasjača Beach, one of the most photographed beaches near Dubrovnik, known for its pristine beauty. Adventure seekers can explore horseback riding and ATV tours at Kojan Coral in Radočići village.

The Ljuta River, a protected natural landscape, showcases restored olive oil and grain mills, as well as weaving looms for traditional Konavle costumes. Travelers can dine at riverside restaurants offering authentic Konavle cuisine.

Accessing Konavle from Dubrovnik is convenient by car, bus, or taxi, with regular local bus services connecting the two areas.

Day trips from Dubrovnik - FAQ

What are the best day trips from Dubrovnik?

Some of the most popular day trips from Dubrovnik are the Elaphiti Islands, Mljet Island and Mljet National Park, Pelješac Peninsula and Korčula, the Konavle countryside, and cross-border trips to Montenegro or Bosnia and Herzegovina. The best choice depends on whether you prefer islands, wine regions, coastal towns or cultural sights.

Do I need a passport for day trips from Dubrovnik?

You need a valid passport for any trip from Dubrovnik that enters Montenegro or Bosnia and Herzegovina, whether you travel on an organised excursion or independently. For day trips that stay within Croatia, such as the Elaphiti Islands, Mljet, Pelješac or Konavle, a passport is not required for border control purposes.

Can I do day trips from Dubrovnik without a car?

Yes, many popular day trips from Dubrovnik can be done without a car. Local buses connect Dubrovnik with Cavtat, Konavle and the Pelješac area, while passenger ferries and excursion boats run to the Elaphiti Islands and Mljet in season. For Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina, organised coach tours are often the easiest option without driving yourself.

Are day trips from Dubrovnik suitable for children?

Several day trips from Dubrovnik work well for families, especially island visits to the Elaphiti Islands or Mljet with beaches and swimming, or shorter outings to Cavtat and Konavle. Longer coach days to Montenegro or Mostar are possible with children but include more time on the road and at border crossings, so planning rest stops and snacks is important.

Can you do day trips from Dubrovnik in winter?

In winter there are fewer organised excursions and limited boat services to the islands, but some day trips are still possible. Mainland destinations such as Cavtat, Konavle, Pelješac or Mostar can often be visited by bus, car or private tour with advance planning and flexible timing.

How many days in Dubrovnik do you need for day trips?

If you want to explore Dubrovnik itself and add one or two day trips, many visitors plan at least four to five nights. This usually allows two days in the city and two or more extra days for islands, nearby countryside or cross-border excursions.

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Best Day Trips from Dubrovnik

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